Shloka 5.47.26

अक्षवधः (The Slaying of Prince Aksha) — Sundarakāṇḍa Sarga 47

Devanagari script

अबालवद्बालदिवाकरप्रभः करोत्ययं कर्म महन्महाबलः।न चास्य सर्वाहवकर्मशोभिनः प्रमापणे मे मतिरत्र जायते।।5.47.26।।

Transliteration

abāla-vad bāla-divākara-prabhaḥ karoty ayaṃ karma mahan mahā-balaḥ | na cāsya sarvāhava-karma-śobhinaḥ pramāpaṇe me matir atra jāyate ||5.47.26||

Translation

“Though still a youth, he acts as one fully mature; radiant like the rising sun and endowed with great strength, he performs mighty deeds. Since he shines in every art of battle, my mind here does not turn toward destroying him.”

Context

'He (Aksha) is like the radiant, rising Sun with extraordinary might. He is accomplishing great deeds unlike young warriors of his age and is exhibiting a magnificent feat. He knows all means of fighting. I do not feel like cutting him to size. My mind does not allow me to kill this boy.

Characters & Entities

• Hanumān
• Akṣa (Akṣakumāra)
• sun (divākara) imagery
• battle arts (āhava-karma)

FAQs

What is the core ethical principle (Dharma) in this verse?

Dharma in warfare includes moral hesitation and compassion: even amid conflict, Hanumān recognizes youth and merit, and truthfully admits his reluctance to kill a capable young prince.

What is the narrative situation?

In the midst of the duel, Hanumān inwardly evaluates Akṣa’s brilliance and considers whether killing him is necessary.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Compassionate discernment—Hanumān’s strength is tempered by ethical reflection and respect for a worthy (and young) opponent.